How to Test for Salt Levels in a Swimming Pool

How to Test for Salt Levels in a Swimming Pool

The parameter that owners of chlorinated saltwater swimming pools must monitor regularly is salt levels. This article explains the importance of measuring the amount of salt in your swimming pool, how to conduct a test, and provides excellent examples of the best tools for the job.

When salt levels exceed what’s required, you're throwing money down the drain, plus you will generate excess chlorine that could damage your pool's equipment. When salt levels are too low, chlorine levels will be inadequate, resulting in algae and bacterial growth that could make your pool unsafe for swimming.

How to Test Salt Levels in a Swimming Pool

An easy, affordable, and reliable option for assessing salt levels in a swimming pool or spa is to use a digital salt tester. These meters are quick and accurate requiring only periodic calibration and minimal maintenance.

While the exact method of testing pool salt levels may vary between different models and brands, the principal steps remain consistent:

  1. Switch on your salt tester.

  2. Dip the electrode of your device into the water you wish to evaluate - either directly into the pool (or spa) or into a clean container of sample pool water.

  3. (Depending on the salinity meter you are using) wait for the reading to stabilise or finish.

  4. Record the salinity reading.

  5. Rinse the electrode in distilled or deionised water. This will prevent salt crystal build-up and keep it in good working order. 

Meters for Testing Salt Levels in Swimming Pools

To help you find the best meter for testing the salt levels in your pool, your team of Instrument Choice Scientists have selected four meters with different features. All models will do an excellent job!

EC-SaltTestr11 - Waterproof Salt Tester
Product code: EC-SaltTestr11

You can’t go wrong with the EC-SaltTestr11. It’s Instrument Choice’s most popular salinity meter for testing salt levels in swimming pools. Customers love the long-term cost savings due to the tester’s user-replaceable sensor and durable construction (including an IP67 waterproof rating) and because it’s quick and straightforward to use.

Specifications:

Measures: Salinity and Temperature
Range: 0 to 10.00 ppt
Accuracy: ± 1% of Full Scale 

 

Salt20 Value Salinity Pocket Tester Kit
Product code: IC-SALT2

The robust IC-SALT2 kit has everything you need to take salt level measurements and calibrate your meter for accuracy. Includes calibration solution, a lanyard, and a portable carry case. 

Our scientists like the IC-SALT2 because it floats on water, and this model is IP67 waterproof and dustproof. You can store and operate your meter in challenging environments, and if you accidentally drop it in the pool – relax! 

 Specifications:

Measures: Salinity and  Temperature
Range: 0 to 10.00 ppt
Accuracy: ±  1% F.S

 

Expert CTS Pocket Tester
Product code: IC-EXPERTCTS

This meter provides an efficient way to monitor salinity and overall water quality. We recommend the pocket-sized IC-EXPERTCTS to fussy pool owners and those wishing to maintain safe water in pools that are hard to keep balanced, such as those that get high levels of traffic. The IC-EXPERTCTS accurately measures salinity, total dissolved solids (TDS) and water conductivity. (Note: TDS measurements in saltwater pools above 4,000 ppm indicate the need for corrective action).   

Other noteworthy features include an IP67 rating, an easy-to-navigate menu, user-friendly reporting of results, and floats on water.

Specifications:

Measures: Conductivity, TDS, Salinity and Temperature
Range: 0.0 to 10.0 ppt
Accuracy: ±2 % of full scale ±1 LSD

 

Ultrapen Pt1 Conductivity, Salinity And TDS Meter
Product code: IC-ML-PT1

The IC-ML-PT1 is highly accurate, fast, and straightforward to use for a diverse range of pool water testing applications, including home and professional use. 

To take a measurement, press a button, dip the pen in water, and your meter will display your swimming pool’s salt level levels in a matter of seconds!

 Specifications:

Measures: Salinity, TDS, Conductivity and Temperature (see also comments for the IC-EXPERTCTS meter above)
Range: 0.0010 - 9.999 ppt
Accuracy: 1% of reading 

 

Conclusion

A salinity meter is a valuable tool to help ensure the salt levels within your swimming pool are kept balanced – in other words, safe for swimming while warning before you over-apply expensive chemicals.

Browse all swimming pool testers here

If you need more information about any of the salt meters listed above or need a hand finding the most suitable meter for your swimming pool, speak with an Instrument Choice Scientist.

Call 1300 737 871 or email [email protected].

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